January 2024 Events on the Crystal Coast
NC Coast January Events 2024
All of the January 2024 events on the Crystal Coast will have you ready to kick off the new year with a splash! We’re all about starting the year off right, beating those winter blues with the blue water of the ocean!
Dive into the Crystal Coast vibes as we ride the winter wave of awesome events! From cozy beach bonfires to quirky local festivals, January here is anything but hibernation-worthy. Get ready to swap snow boots for flip-flops and join the coastal crew in embracing the cool and colorful happenings that make this month uniquely Crystal Coast.
Read on because January is jam-packed with excitement – our coast, our events, our adventures!
Let’s start with New Year’s Eve Festivities!
Ringing in the New Year on the Crystal Coast is like stepping into a coastal fairytale. As the clock ticks down on December 31st, you could have your toes in the sand, and the ocean breeze whispering promises of a fresh start.
Join the local festivities. When the sun rises on January 1st, there’s no better place to nurse that celebratory cheer than with a stroll along the shoreline. So, here’s to New Year’s Eve under the stars and New Year’s Day with the waves – Crystal Coast style!
We know New Year’s Eve is technically still December, but we simply could not talk about these events since they trickle into January. This list of January 2024 events on the Crystal Coast is a great way to start the new month and new year! So, take your pick!
Beaufort: Buccaneers Pirate Party
Set sail for a Buccaneer’s New Year’s Eve like no other! Forget the Big Apple’s ball drop – Beaufort’s got a swashbuckling twist. Picture this: grab your trusty lawn chair, circle ’round the fire pit, and indulge in mouthwatering s’mores and steaming hot cocoa. All hands on deck as we countdown to the legendary Capt. Shack’s daring plunge off the icy plank into the depths of Taylor’s Creek!
It’s a seafaring celebration you won’t want to miss on December 31st. Let the pirate party begin!
Fort Macon: Cannon Blast
Get ready to welcome the new year with a bang at Fort Macon! The party starts with live entertainment at 6 PM, and the cannons will unleash their thunder at 7 PM sharp. Remember, roads close for safety at 6:45 PM, so be on deck in time! Feel free to make the night your own by bringing along folding chairs and picnic supplies for maximum comfort.
It’s a celebration that combines history, spectacle, and your personal touch – see you there!
Morehead City: Crab Pot Drop
Head to Downtown Morehead City (700 Shepards St) for the Crab Pot Drop, where the fun kicks off at 5:00 p.m. with kid-friendly festivities – think games, music, face painting, and coloring galore. The little crab pot takes its plunge at 6:00 p.m., setting the stage for an evening filled with downtown delights.
Explore the shops and savor a delicious dinner, all building up to the grand finale – a dazzling display of fireworks and the epic drop of the large crab pot at the stroke of midnight. It’s a family-friendly celebration that promises a memorable start to the new year!
Newport: Pig Drop
No worries, this isn’t a real pig drop. Picture a neon beautiful pig dropping down to ring in the New Year! Join the festivities at Newport Community Park (200 Howard Blvd) for the Pig Drop – an evening filled with music, hot chocolate, and cookies! The fun kicks off at 5:00 p.m. and wraps up at 6:30 p.m.
It’s the perfect recipe for a cozy and delightful winter evening. Come for the tunes, stay for the warmth, and enjoy the sweet moments as we bid farewell to the year!
Bogue: New Year’s Eve Bash
Get ready to rock the New Year at Bogue Sound Distillery (108 Bogue Commercial Drive)! The party kicks off at 7:00 pm and features live music from the Southern Hellcats, a cash balloon drop, a midnight toast with champagne, and a post-midnight snack extravaganza.
Don’t miss out on the Pony Up Pizza food truck serving delicious bites from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. It’s a night of music, celebration, and tasty treats to welcome the new year in style!
Salter Path: Cheer in the New Year!
Get ready for the 2nd Annual Cheer in the New Year bash at Homer’s Point Marina and Pub in Salter Path (160 Shore Drive)! Fuel the fun with fantastic eats and icy brews to keep the party alive. The band will be jamming from 8:00 pm to midnight, ensuring non-stop excitement. And when the clock strikes twelve, join in for a sparkling champagne toast.
It’s a night of great food, cold drinks, live tunes, and a toast to welcome the new year in style!
Emerald Isle: New Year’s Eve Bash
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style at 77 West in Emerald Isle (309 Mangrove Dr) with the Dakota Blue Bash! Enjoy the live performances by Dakota Blue and special guest Lonnie Britton starting at 8:30 p.m. Plus, savor the delicious offerings from Stoney’s Wood-Fired Pizza, serving up mouthwatering pies from 5:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. It’s a night of great music, delectable eats, and a fantastic way to welcome the new year!
New Year’s Day: January 1st
What better way to kick off the first day of the year than on the vibrant shores of the Crystal Coast, embracing a medley of exciting activities!? Spend the first day of the year filled with nature, creativity, and coastal wonders – the perfect recipe for a memorable start to the year on the Crystal Coast!
Fort Macon: First Day Hike
Start the new year with a refreshing First Day Hike at Fort Macon! Four ranger-led hikes kick off from the Visitor Center at either 8:00 am or 3:00 pm, offering two options for each time slot. Choose between a short nature hike on the Yarrow’s Loop trail and inlet beach (covering about ¾ of a mile) or a longer 3.2-mile journey around the Elliott Coues Trail. Don’t forget to wear sturdy shoes, bring a water bottle, and, perhaps, some bug spray.
Atlantic Beach: Penguin Plunge
Dive into the chilly fun of the Penguin Plunge at the Circle Regional Access! The event starts at 1:00 p.m., with on-site registration opening at 10:30 am. Get ready to make a splash and welcome the new year with a refreshing dip.
Morehead City: Chilled Out Snowman
Embrace your creative side at the Chilled Out Snowman Door Hanger Workshop, an adults-only painting party at Wine and Design. The workshop begins at 6:30 p.m., so arrive 15 minutes early. Remember, it’s BYOW/B (Bring Your Own Wine/Beer and Snacks). Secure your spot in advance as walk-ins aren’t accepted.
Bear Island: First Day Hike
Embark on an island adventure with a First Day Hike on Bear Island in Swansboro. Join a park ranger on a ferry ride to the island, learning about its habitats and wildlife. Seating is limited, so sign up to explore the beach, enjoy wildlife watching, and maybe even bring back a beach souvenir!
Other January Events on the Crystal Coast
With each passing day, the Crystal Coast beckons with opportunities to experience its charm, making January a month brimming with coastal magic and endless possibilities. Let’s unravel the gems scattered across this coastal paradise throughout the month. We are inviting you to create unforgettable memories and embrace the beauty that defines life on the Crystal Coast.
Beaufort: DryBar Night at The Periwinkle – January 2nd
Attention all Dry January participants! The Periwinkle invites you to a special DryBar event every Tuesday in January. Embrace the booze-free bar experience and join us for a delightful and refreshing evening. It’s the perfect way to stay on track with your Dry January goals while enjoying the lively atmosphere at The Periwinkle. Cheers to a vibrant and alcohol-free Tuesday!
Morehead City: New Year’s Resolution Fun Run – January 2nd
Thought the list of January 2024 events on the Crystal Coast were all about working out, and strenuous activities? Come on! This is the NC Coast, after all. We’re all about self-care while having fun!
Jumpstart your New Year with a burst of energy and support the West Carteret Booster Club at their New Year’s Resolution Fun Run in Morehead City, NC (28557). Set for January 2, 2024, at 9:00 AM, this Saturday event offers categories for individuals, a race-only option (sans shirt), a kid’s race (5-10 years, no shirt), and even a group category.
Lace-up your running shoes, embrace the spirit of resolutions, and make a healthy, active start to the year. It’s a fantastic way to combine fitness, fun, and community support!
Peletier: Crystal Coast Bridal Showcase – January 14th
Join us at the Crystal Coast Bridal Showcase and discover the best wedding vendors the Crystal Coast has to offer. Take a guided tour of the stunning venue: 213 West Weddings & Event Center! Whether you’re planning a wedding or a special event, this is the ultimate destination for inspiration and connections with top-notch vendors. Don’t miss out!
Beaufort: NC Whales – January 25th
Explore North Carolina’s diverse whale species with biologist Keith Rittmaster at the NC Maritime Museum Heritage Series. Learn about common coastal whales, handle related display items, and delve into marine mammal conservation. Admission is free, and no registration is required for this engaging event in our museum auditorium, highlighting North Carolina’s maritime history and coastal environment.
Newport: Flights & Bites – January 25th
Embark on a flavorful journey with Shortway Brewing’s head brewer as you explore a flight pairing experience. Dive into the intricacies of Shortway’s delightful brews, learning about the key ingredients that create their unique flavors. Discover how to elevate your palate by expertly pairing beer with cuisine.
Priced at $36 per person, including a 20% gratuity, this event kicks off at 6:30 PM, so be sure to arrive on time and prepare for an hour of immersive enjoyment. Hurry, as this exclusive experience is limited to just 16 people!
Experience January on the Crystal Coast
January 2024 events on the Crystal Coast are a treasure trove of diverse experiences waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a local seeking new adventures or a visitor eager to discover the coastal charm, this month has something special for everyone.
From engaging events and outdoor activities to unique culinary experiences and cultural delights, the Crystal Coast warmly welcomes all to start the year with a blend of excitement and relaxation. Embrace the coastal magic, create lasting memories, and savor the vibrant offerings that make January a truly remarkable time on the Crystal Coast.
Whatever your preference, this coastal haven invites you to revel in the beauty, diversity, and warmth that define this unique corner of North Carolina. Cheers to an unforgettable January on the Crystal Coast! Need the perfect place to stay during your favorite event? Head this way to find the perfect vacation rental on the Crystal Coast!
Crystal Coast Events Year Round
Beyond the exciting January 2024 events on the Crystal Coast, this area boasts a year-round calendar brimming with adventure. From beachside festivals and culinary adventures to outdoor explorations, there’s always something happening in this coastal paradise.
Dive into the full spectrum of events waiting for you by checking out our comprehensive events calendar of recommended activities. Your next adventure on the Crystal Coast is just a click away!